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📈college algebra review

P = 2π/|B|

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The term P = 2π/|B| represents the period of a periodic function, where P is the period, π is the mathematical constant pi, and |B| is the absolute value of the amplitude or maximum displacement of the function. This term is particularly important in the context of understanding the graphs of the sine and cosine functions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The period of a periodic function determines the frequency or rate at which the function repeats itself.
  2. The amplitude of a periodic function affects the vertical scale of the graph, determining the maximum and minimum values of the function.
  3. The period and amplitude of sine and cosine functions are closely related, as the period is inversely proportional to the absolute value of the amplitude.
  4. The formula P = 2π/|B| allows you to calculate the period of a sine or cosine function given the amplitude.
  5. Understanding the relationship between period and amplitude is crucial for analyzing the behavior and characteristics of sine and cosine functions.

Review Questions

  • Explain how the formula P = 2π/|B| relates to the period and amplitude of a sine or cosine function.
    • The formula P = 2π/|B| demonstrates the inverse relationship between the period (P) and the absolute value of the amplitude (|B|) of a sine or cosine function. The period is directly proportional to 2π, the mathematical constant, and inversely proportional to the absolute value of the amplitude. This means that as the amplitude increases, the period of the function decreases, and vice versa. Understanding this relationship is essential for describing and analyzing the characteristics of periodic functions, such as the sine and cosine functions.
  • Describe how the period and amplitude of a sine or cosine function affect the graph of the function.
    • The period and amplitude of a sine or cosine function have a significant impact on the appearance and behavior of the graph. The period determines the horizontal distance over which the function repeats itself, affecting the frequency or rate of oscillation. The amplitude, on the other hand, affects the vertical scale of the graph, determining the maximum and minimum values of the function. By understanding the formula P = 2π/|B|, you can use the period and amplitude to predict and analyze the shape and characteristics of the sine or cosine function's graph, including its frequency, range, and overall appearance.
  • Explain how the relationship between period and amplitude, as expressed in the formula P = 2π/|B|, can be used to model and describe real-world periodic phenomena.
    • The formula P = 2π/|B| is not only applicable to the sine and cosine functions but can also be used to model and describe various real-world periodic phenomena. Many natural and man-made processes exhibit periodic behavior, such as the motion of a pendulum, the tides, the oscillation of an electrical circuit, or the vibration of a musical instrument. By understanding the inverse relationship between period and amplitude, as expressed in the formula, you can use this knowledge to analyze, predict, and model the behavior of these periodic systems. This allows for a deeper understanding of the underlying principles governing these phenomena and can be applied in fields ranging from physics and engineering to biology and meteorology.